Central Texans Encouraged to Prepare for Extreme Heat

Central Texas is expected to get its highest air temperatures and heat indexes of the summer today. The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Heat Warning for the area in effect from noon until 8 p.m. Wednesday.  

Temps at Camp Mabry in Austin are projected to reach 103 with a heat index up to 115 this afternoon. The City encourages community members to take steps to prepare for the heat and avoid heat-related illness. 

Tips to avoid developing symptoms of heat-related illness include: 

• Stay hydrated by taking regular breaks to drink water, even if you are not thirsty.

• If working or playing outdoors, take regular shade breaks to cool off.

• Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.

• Wear a brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. 

Don’t forget your pets. Be sure to bring plenty of water with you if walking or exercising with your dog and have a collapsible bowl for them to stay hydrated as well. 

Heat-related illnesses can become life-threatening if untreated. It is important to know the signs and symptoms of heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke before spending time outdoors in hot weather.

Heat cramps are a heat-related illness that can progress to heat exhaustion or heat stroke if left untreated. If you experience muscle or abdominal cramps while in the heat, stop physical activity, move to a cooler location, and drink water. Wait until the cramps have completely gone away before resuming activity.

If cramps last longer than an hour, or if the person develops symptoms of heat exhaustion, seek medical attention. If symptoms are indicative of heat stroke, call 9-1-1.

Symptoms of heat exhaustion include:

• Cool, pale, clammy skin

• Weakness

• Dizziness

• Heavy sweating

• Nausea or vomiting

• Fast, weak pulse

What to do if someone is experiencing heat exhaustion:

• Move the person to a cooler area immediately.

• Loosen or remove excess clothing.

• Encourage them to sip cool water slowly.

If symptoms do not improve, last longer than an hour, or the person begins vomiting, seek medical attention. Heat exhaustion can quickly progress to heat stroke.

Symptoms of heat stroke include:

• Hot, red, dry or damp skin

• Rapid, strong pulse

• Throbbing headache

• Confusion

• Nausea or dizziness

• Body temperature above 103 degrees

• Lethargy or loss of consciousness

Heat stroke is a time-sensitive, life-threatening emergency that can cause death or permanent disability if not treated immediately. If you or someone you are with experiences symptoms of heat stroke, remember: 

Move them. Cool them. Call 9-1-1.

• Move the person to a cooler area, preferably an air-conditioned space.

• Lower their body temperature using cool cloths or a cool bath.

• Do not give fluids or anything by mouth. 

The City has Cooling Centers available for those who need a temporary reprieve from the heat. Austin Parks recreation centers and Austin Public Library branches may be used to cool off during regular business hours. A map of available facilities is posted on the City’s Alerts webpage at austintexas.gov/alerts.  

Anyone can experience a heat-related illness, but Austinites are encouraged to check on their family and friends in certain groups that may face greater risks during periods of extreme heat. 

• Infants and Children: Young children and infants are less able to regulate their body temperature and can become overheated quickly.

• Older Adults: Older adults may be more vulnerable to heat, especially if they have underlying health conditions, take certain medications, live alone, or have limited mobility.

• People with Chronic Medical Conditions: Individuals with chronic health conditions may be more likely to experience serious complications during extreme heat.

• People who Work, Exercise, or Play Outside: Outdoor workers, athletes, and others who spend extended periods outside account for a significant number of heat-related illnesses each year.

• People who are Pregnant: Exposure to extreme heat may increase health risks during pregnancy. 

Stay weather aware by following the forecast from your preferred local meteorologist so you know of any updates or changes. Take steps to prepare you, your family, and your community for the heat this week, and stay hydrated. 

Learn more about heat preparedness at ReadyCentralTexas.org.